US20090181211A1 - Distortion resistant transparent reinforcing fibers for use in transparent reinforced composites - Google Patents
Distortion resistant transparent reinforcing fibers for use in transparent reinforced composites Download PDFInfo
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- US20090181211A1 US20090181211A1 US12/015,221 US1522108A US2009181211A1 US 20090181211 A1 US20090181211 A1 US 20090181211A1 US 1522108 A US1522108 A US 1522108A US 2009181211 A1 US2009181211 A1 US 2009181211A1
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- transparent
- composite
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- opaque
- light
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- 239000012783 reinforcing fiber Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 18
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- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 17
- 239000013306 transparent fiber Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 8
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- 230000003014 reinforcing effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 4
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 35
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 claims description 13
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- XQUPVDVFXZDTLT-UHFFFAOYSA-N 1-[4-[[4-(2,5-dioxopyrrol-1-yl)phenyl]methyl]phenyl]pyrrole-2,5-dione Chemical compound O=C1C=CC(=O)N1C(C=C1)=CC=C1CC1=CC=C(N2C(C=CC2=O)=O)C=C1 XQUPVDVFXZDTLT-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000004593 Epoxy Substances 0.000 claims description 2
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- 229920003192 poly(bis maleimide) Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920003229 poly(methyl methacrylate) Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000004417 polycarbonate Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920000515 polycarbonate Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920001601 polyetherimide Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
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- 230000003287 optical effect Effects 0.000 description 7
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Images
Classifications
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C08—ORGANIC MACROMOLECULAR COMPOUNDS; THEIR PREPARATION OR CHEMICAL WORKING-UP; COMPOSITIONS BASED THEREON
- C08J—WORKING-UP; GENERAL PROCESSES OF COMPOUNDING; AFTER-TREATMENT NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASSES C08B, C08C, C08F, C08G or C08H
- C08J5/00—Manufacture of articles or shaped materials containing macromolecular substances
- C08J5/04—Reinforcing macromolecular compounds with loose or coherent fibrous material
- C08J5/0405—Reinforcing macromolecular compounds with loose or coherent fibrous material with inorganic fibres
- C08J5/043—Reinforcing macromolecular compounds with loose or coherent fibrous material with inorganic fibres with glass fibres
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
- B64C—AEROPLANES; HELICOPTERS
- B64C1/00—Fuselages; Constructional features common to fuselages, wings, stabilising surfaces or the like
- B64C1/14—Windows; Doors; Hatch covers or access panels; Surrounding frame structures; Canopies; Windscreens accessories therefor, e.g. pressure sensors, water deflectors, hinges, seals, handles, latches, windscreen wipers
- B64C1/1476—Canopies; Windscreens or similar transparent elements
- B64C1/1492—Structure and mounting of the transparent elements in the window or windscreen
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- D06M—TREATMENT, NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE IN CLASS D06, OF FIBRES, THREADS, YARNS, FABRICS, FEATHERS OR FIBROUS GOODS MADE FROM SUCH MATERIALS
- D06M23/00—Treatment of fibres, threads, yarns, fabrics or fibrous goods made from such materials, characterised by the process
- D06M23/16—Processes for the non-uniform application of treating agents, e.g. one-sided treatment; Differential treatment
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F41—WEAPONS
- F41H—ARMOUR; ARMOURED TURRETS; ARMOURED OR ARMED VEHICLES; MEANS OF ATTACK OR DEFENCE, e.g. CAMOUFLAGE, IN GENERAL
- F41H5/00—Armour; Armour plates
- F41H5/02—Plate construction
- F41H5/04—Plate construction composed of more than one layer
- F41H5/0407—Transparent bullet-proof laminatesinformative reference: layered products essentially comprising glass in general B32B17/06, e.g. B32B17/10009; manufacture or composition of glass, e.g. joining glass to glass C03; permanent multiple-glazing windows, e.g. with spacing therebetween, E06B3/66
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
- G02B6/44—Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
- G02B6/4401—Optical cables
- G02B6/4403—Optical cables with ribbon structure
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
- Y10T428/24—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.]
- Y10T428/24058—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.] including grain, strips, or filamentary elements in respective layers or components in angular relation
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
- Y10T428/24—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.]
- Y10T428/24058—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.] including grain, strips, or filamentary elements in respective layers or components in angular relation
- Y10T428/24124—Fibers
Definitions
- the present invention is directed to transparent reinforcing materials and reinforced composite materials.
- Transparent composite materials are known for use in vehicle and other applications requiring light transmission or visual transparency.
- Such transparent composite materials include windows or other transparent materials useful for light transmission therethrough, particularly in hostile environment and in locations requiring ballistic resistance.
- Such reinforcement further provides the window or transparent device resistance to cracking or breakage and/or reduced system weight.
- Transparent composite materials typically include a reinforcing fiber.
- both the matrix material and the reinforcing fiber are fabricated from a transparent material.
- the materials typically do not have the same optical properties over the entire operational envelope, thus resulting in distortion.
- the refractive index of the matrix material and the reinforcing fiber may not be the same, resulting in a bending or refracting of the light passing through the composite.
- Geometry of reinforcing fibers also affects the distortion of light passing through the transparent device.
- round fibers i.e., fibers having circular cross-sections
- the optical properties of the matrix material and reinforcing fiber may be dependent upon temperature, wherein the materials in the matrix and the materials in the reinforcing material have optical properties that are independently dependent upon temperature.
- Known reinforcing systems suffer from the drawback that applications with a high temperature variation, including operation in locations having high ambient temperatures results in a large change in optical properties (e.g., change in refractive index), which provides increased distortion of light passing through the transparent device.
- a first aspect of the disclosure includes a reinforcing fiber for reinforcing a transparent matrix composite.
- the fiber includes a substantially transparent fiber ribbon having an elongated cross-sectional geometry.
- the fiber ribbon includes edges that are substantially opaque. Light is substantially prevented from passing through the opaque edges to reduce or eliminate light distortion caused by the edges.
- the composite includes a substantially transparent matrix material and a plurality of reinforcing fiber ribbons disposed in the transparent matrix material, the fiber ribbons having an elongated cross-sectional geometry, the fiber ribbons having one or more edges that are substantially opaque. Light is substantially prevented from passing through the opaque edges to reduce or eliminate light distortion through the composite.
- Still another aspect of the disclosure includes a method for fabricating a window assembly.
- the method includes providing a plurality of reinforcing fiber ribbons.
- the fiber ribbons include an elongated cross-sectional geometry and have one or more edges that are substantially opaque. Light is substantially prevented from passing through the opaque edges.
- the plurality of reinforcing fiber ribbons are arranged and disposed into a substantially transparent matrix.
- the matrix is cured to form a substantially transparent reinforced matrix composite.
- the composite is assembled into a window assembly.
- Still another aspect of the disclosure includes a method for providing a vehicle.
- the method further includes providing a transparent reinforced matrix composite.
- the composite includes a substantially transparent matrix material and a plurality of reinforcing fiber ribbons disposed in the transparent matrix material, the fiber ribbons having an elongated cross-sectional geometry, the fiber ribbons having one or more edges that are substantially opaque. Light is substantially prevented from passing through the opaque edges to reduce or eliminate light distortion through the composite.
- the transparent reinforced matrix composite is assembled into the vehicle.
- FIG. 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a fiber ribbon having transparent edges.
- FIG. 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of another fiber ribbon having transparent edges.
- FIG. 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a fiber ribbon according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a fiber ribbon according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 5 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a fiber ribbon according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 6 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a fiber ribbon according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 7 shows a top perspective view of a reinforced matrix composite according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- Transparent “Transparency” and grammatical variations thereof include an ability of a material to permit passage of at least a portion of visible light (e.g., light having a wavelength of from about 380 nm to about 700 nm) or light having other desired wavelengths, such as night vision (e.g., about 700 nm to about 1000 nm) and/or infrared (e.g. from about 1000 nm to about 2000 nm), directed at the material.
- night vision e.g., about 700 nm to about 1000 nm
- infrared e.g. from about 1000 nm to about 2000 nm
- FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a transparent fiber ribbon 100 .
- the transparent fiber ribbon 100 is fabricated from any suitable transparent reinforcing material. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to glass, such as optical grade glass, liquid crystal display screen glass, and partially crystalline glasses.
- the fiber ribbon 100 is a glass fiber that is drawn under heat and pressure to form a fiber ribbon 100 having an elongated cross-section. As shown in FIG. 1 , the elongated cross-section includes an edge 101 at a substantially perpendicular angle to a flattened first surface 103 .
- elongated geometry it is meant that the geometry of the cross-section includes dimensions in a first direction and dimensions in a second direction, wherein the dimensions in the first direction are greater than the dimensions in the second direction.
- the geometries are not limited to linear geometries and may include curved or complex shapes.
- Suitable cross-sectional elongated geometries may include rectangular geometries, oval geometries, rectangular geometries having curved and linear edges or any other geometries having one dimension greater than another dimension.
- One preferable geometry may include a flattened first edge and a flattened second edge having the longer dimension and being aligned along substantially parallel planes.
- the flattened first surface 103 is a surface through which light 105 may enter fiber ribbon 100 .
- Light 105 is shown directionally in a schematic diagram to illustrate general refraction or bending of the light direction and is not intended to be limiting of the material or the actual refraction or direction of the light 105 as it passes through fiber ribbon 100 .
- a difference in refractive index causes the light to bend.
- the amount of change of direction is dependent upon the refractive index of the resin, the refractive index of the fiber, and the fiber geometry.
- the angle at which the light contacts the material affects the amount of directional change for light 105 .
- the direction of the light remains substantially constant.
- the light 105 changes direction. Along flattened second surface 107 , the light changes direction in a substantially uniform manner. That is, the light exiting the fiber ribbon 100 refracts at an angle that is substantially constant along the flattened second surface 107 .
- Refracted light 109 exiting the fiber ribbon 100 along edge 101 refracts at an angle dissimilar to the light 105 exiting along the second flattened edge 107 .
- the light 105 exiting fiber ribbon 100 along second flattened surface 107 is directed in a direction substantially similar to the direction of light that does not enter the fiber ribbon 100 , as depicted by the three lines labeled 105 to the upper right hand portion of FIG. 1 .
- the refracted light 109 is directed in a direction that is different and at varying angles to light that does not enter the fiber ribbon 100 , thereby distorting the light and distorting any image viewable through the fiber ribbon 100 .
- FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a transparent fiber ribbon 100 having a construction substantially identical to the fiber ribbon shown in FIG. 1 , wherein the geometry of edge 101 is curved.
- the light exiting fiber ribbon 100 refracts forming refracted light 109 , distorting the light and distorting any image viewable through the fiber ribbon 100 .
- FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a transparent fiber ribbon 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure having a construction substantially identical to the fiber ribbon shown in FIG. 1 .
- the transparent fiber ribbon 100 includes an opaque portion 301 along edge 101 .
- the opaque portion 301 includes an opaque material or coating that is capable of absorbing light 105 .
- the opaque potion 301 includes a curved portion of opaque material.
- the opaque portion 301 may be affixed to the fiber ribbon 100 , may be adjacent or in close proximity to the fiber ribbon 100 or may be integrally formed with fiber ribbon 100 .
- the opaque portion 301 may include any suitable material that is opaque and absorbs light.
- Suitable opaque materials include, but are not limited to, crushed optically opaque glass (e.g., black glass), optically opaque paint, optically opaque rods (e.g., black rods), metallic layers, diffused impurities other materials that absorb light.
- the opaque portion 301 may be applied to both distal edges and portions of the flattened first surface 103 and the flattened second surface 107 , if additional absorption of light is needed or for ease of manufacturing.
- the light 105 passing through the fiber ribbon 100 results in viewed light 305 .
- viewed light 305 may include light viewable through the fiber ribbon 100 .
- Viewed light 305 is directed in a direction substantially identical to the source light 303 , which is light that does not pass from one medium to another. As can be seen in FIG. 3 , the portion of light that is directed to edge 101 is absorbed by opaque portion 301 and is not permitted to exit the fiber ribbon 100 . Therefore, substantially all of the light passing through the fiber ribbon 100 is viewed light 305 , which is substantially undistorted.
- the opaque portion 301 may be formed by providing an optically transparent glass rod with an optically opaque glass material (e.g., black glass particles) or coating on portions of the rod, corresponding to edges 101 of the ribbon fiber 100 .
- the fiber ribbons 100 may be drawn using any known glass fiber drawing technique known in the art.
- the formed glass fiber ribbon 100 includes a transparent portion along the flattened first surface 103 and along the flattened second surface 107 and an opaque portion 301 along edge 101 .
- the flattened first surface 103 and the flattened second surface are substantially planar and are preferably substantially parallel to each other.
- FIG. 4 shows an alternative embodiment, wherein the fiber ribbon 100 includes a substantially identical structure to the fiber ribbon 100 of FIG. 3 wherein the opaque portion 301 affixed to edge 101 is a semicircular material. As in FIG. 3 , substantially all of the light passing through the fiber ribbon 100 is viewed light 305 , which is substantially undistorted.
- the opaque portion 301 may be formed by heating optically transparent glass and an optically opaque glass rod together during the drawing of the fiber ribbons 100 .
- the fiber ribbons 100 may be drawn using any known glass fiber drawing technique known in the art.
- the formed glass fiber ribbon 100 includes a transparent portion along the flattened first surface 103 and along the flattened second surface 107 and an opaque portion 301 along edge 101 .
- FIGS. 5 and 6 shows alternative embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the fiber ribbons 100 include a substantially identical structure to the fiber ribbon 100 of FIG. 3 .
- the opaque portion 301 is a coating formed or applied on the edge 101 of the fiber ribbon 100 .
- the coating on the edge 101 includes an opaque paint or opaque material that is coated on the edge 101 of the fiber ribbon 100 .
- the opaque paint or opaque material may be applied to the edge 101 of the fiber ribbon 100 and allowed to dry or cure.
- the paint or opaque material may be applied prior to drawing, wherein the opaque portions 301 remain on edge 101 .
- substantially all of the light passing through the fiber ribbon 100 is viewed light 305 , which is substantially undistorted.
- the opaque portions 301 may also be integrally formed into the fiber ribbons 100 during production of the fiber ribbon 100 by processing the fiber ribbon to include opaque portions corresponding to the edges 101 of the fiber ribbons 100 .
- the fiber ribbon 100 may be pulled or drawn from a melt pool, wherein the opaque portions 301 may be painted onto the pulled fiber ribbon 100 surface or integrally formed from adjacent melt pools of opaque material.
- the opaque portions may also cover some portion of the flattened first surface 103 and the flattened second surface 107 , as desired for providing absorption of additional light that may be undesirably refracted or for ease of manufacturing, provided light is permitted to pass through the bulk of the fiber ribbon 100 .
- FIG. 7 shows a reinforced composite article 700 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- the composite article 700 is preferably a transparent article having fiber ribbons 100 incorporated into a matrix material 701 .
- the matrix material 701 is a substantially transparent material that permits the passage of light.
- FIG. 7 shows a substantially parallel arrangement of fiber ribbons 100
- the disclosure is not so limited.
- the composite article 700 may include a plurality of fiber reinforced layers with fiber ribbons 100 at various angles to provide desirable mechanical properties.
- the matrix material 701 may include any suitable material for use in the reinforced composite that is capable of incorporating fiber ribbons 100 and providing passage of light. Suitable matrix materials 701 include, but are not limited to polymers, ceramics or glasses.
- the matrix material 701 may include, but is not limited to, a thermoplastic resin material, such as polycarbonate, polyetherimide or a thermoset resin material, such as poly(methyl methacrylate), epoxy or bismaleimide or other transparent resin materials.
- the matrix material 701 may include, but is not limited to, a ceramic such a calcium fluoride.
- the matrix material 701 utilized depends on the application, including the ambient temperatures and the temperatures of exposure.
- the fiber ribbons 100 include a structure, such as the structure, including opaque portion 301 , as shown in FIGS. 3-6 .
- the arrangement of the fiber ribbon 100 is not limited to the arrangement shown and may include any arrangement that provide reinforcement of the composite article 700 .
- the optical properties of the matrix material 701 may vary with conditions, such as temperature.
- the absorption of light at edges 301 allows only light passing between the fiber ribbons 100 and light passing through the flattened first surface 103 and the flattened second surface 107 of the fiber ribbon 100 . Therefore, the refraction of light and the direction in which the light is directed is substantially the same across the composite article 700 , even at various temperatures.
- the transparent composite article 700 is suitable for use as a component of a window assembly or other transparent device.
- Window assembly includes a window and components associated with the window, including the window, frames, mounting devices, or other associated equipment or devices.
- the transparent composite article 700 may be assembled into a window assembly for an aircraft or a transparent portion of an automobile, armored vehicle (e.g., a personnel carrier or transport) or boat (e.g., a glass-bottomed boat).
- the transparent composite article 700 may be assembled into a window assembly for a stationary structure, such as a skyscraper or other architectural structure.
- the transparent composite article 700 is suitable for use with riot gear or other personal protection, such as face shields or armshields, wherein it is desirable to permit viewing through a ballistic resistant material.
Abstract
Description
- This application is a continuation in part of application Ser. No. 12/013,006, filed Jan. 11, 2008, for which priority is claimed and whose disclosure is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- The present invention is directed to transparent reinforcing materials and reinforced composite materials.
- Transparent composite materials are known for use in vehicle and other applications requiring light transmission or visual transparency. Such transparent composite materials include windows or other transparent materials useful for light transmission therethrough, particularly in hostile environment and in locations requiring ballistic resistance. Such reinforcement further provides the window or transparent device resistance to cracking or breakage and/or reduced system weight.
- Transparent composite materials typically include a reinforcing fiber. In order to render the composite material transparent, both the matrix material and the reinforcing fiber are fabricated from a transparent material. The materials typically do not have the same optical properties over the entire operational envelope, thus resulting in distortion. For example, the refractive index of the matrix material and the reinforcing fiber may not be the same, resulting in a bending or refracting of the light passing through the composite.
- Geometry of reinforcing fibers also affects the distortion of light passing through the transparent device. For example, round fibers (i.e., fibers having circular cross-sections) provide prismatic or other optical light refractive effects that provide overall distortion of the light passing through the transparent device.
- In addition, the optical properties of the matrix material and reinforcing fiber may be dependent upon temperature, wherein the materials in the matrix and the materials in the reinforcing material have optical properties that are independently dependent upon temperature. Known reinforcing systems suffer from the drawback that applications with a high temperature variation, including operation in locations having high ambient temperatures results in a large change in optical properties (e.g., change in refractive index), which provides increased distortion of light passing through the transparent device.
- What is needed is a transparent reinforcing material is that is resistant to light distortion at various temperatures and does not suffer from the drawbacks of the prior art.
- A first aspect of the disclosure includes a reinforcing fiber for reinforcing a transparent matrix composite. The fiber includes a substantially transparent fiber ribbon having an elongated cross-sectional geometry. The fiber ribbon includes edges that are substantially opaque. Light is substantially prevented from passing through the opaque edges to reduce or eliminate light distortion caused by the edges.
- Another aspect of the disclosure includes a substantially transparent reinforced matrix composite. The composite includes a substantially transparent matrix material and a plurality of reinforcing fiber ribbons disposed in the transparent matrix material, the fiber ribbons having an elongated cross-sectional geometry, the fiber ribbons having one or more edges that are substantially opaque. Light is substantially prevented from passing through the opaque edges to reduce or eliminate light distortion through the composite.
- Still another aspect of the disclosure includes a method for fabricating a window assembly. The method includes providing a plurality of reinforcing fiber ribbons. The fiber ribbons include an elongated cross-sectional geometry and have one or more edges that are substantially opaque. Light is substantially prevented from passing through the opaque edges. The plurality of reinforcing fiber ribbons are arranged and disposed into a substantially transparent matrix. The matrix is cured to form a substantially transparent reinforced matrix composite. The composite is assembled into a window assembly.
- Still another aspect of the disclosure includes a method for providing a vehicle. The method further includes providing a transparent reinforced matrix composite. The composite includes a substantially transparent matrix material and a plurality of reinforcing fiber ribbons disposed in the transparent matrix material, the fiber ribbons having an elongated cross-sectional geometry, the fiber ribbons having one or more edges that are substantially opaque. Light is substantially prevented from passing through the opaque edges to reduce or eliminate light distortion through the composite. The transparent reinforced matrix composite is assembled into the vehicle.
- Other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following more detailed description of the preferred embodiment, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention.
-
FIG. 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a fiber ribbon having transparent edges. -
FIG. 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of another fiber ribbon having transparent edges. -
FIG. 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a fiber ribbon according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a fiber ribbon according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 5 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a fiber ribbon according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 6 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a fiber ribbon according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 7 shows a top perspective view of a reinforced matrix composite according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. - Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.
- “Transparent”, “transparency” and grammatical variations thereof include an ability of a material to permit passage of at least a portion of visible light (e.g., light having a wavelength of from about 380 nm to about 700 nm) or light having other desired wavelengths, such as night vision (e.g., about 700 nm to about 1000 nm) and/or infrared (e.g. from about 1000 nm to about 2000 nm), directed at the material. “Opaque” and grammatical variations thereof include an ability of a material to absorb substantially all light in the desired wavelengths (e.g., visible spectrum, night vision spectrum or infrared spectrum), directed at the material.
-
FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of atransparent fiber ribbon 100. Thetransparent fiber ribbon 100 is fabricated from any suitable transparent reinforcing material. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to glass, such as optical grade glass, liquid crystal display screen glass, and partially crystalline glasses. In a certain embodiment, thefiber ribbon 100 is a glass fiber that is drawn under heat and pressure to form afiber ribbon 100 having an elongated cross-section. As shown inFIG. 1 , the elongated cross-section includes anedge 101 at a substantially perpendicular angle to a flattenedfirst surface 103. By “elongated geometry”, it is meant that the geometry of the cross-section includes dimensions in a first direction and dimensions in a second direction, wherein the dimensions in the first direction are greater than the dimensions in the second direction. The geometries are not limited to linear geometries and may include curved or complex shapes. Suitable cross-sectional elongated geometries may include rectangular geometries, oval geometries, rectangular geometries having curved and linear edges or any other geometries having one dimension greater than another dimension. One preferable geometry may include a flattened first edge and a flattened second edge having the longer dimension and being aligned along substantially parallel planes. - The flattened
first surface 103 is a surface through whichlight 105 may enterfiber ribbon 100.Light 105 is shown directionally in a schematic diagram to illustrate general refraction or bending of the light direction and is not intended to be limiting of the material or the actual refraction or direction of thelight 105 as it passes throughfiber ribbon 100. As thelight 105 enters thefiber ribbon 100, a difference in refractive index causes the light to bend. The amount of change of direction is dependent upon the refractive index of the resin, the refractive index of the fiber, and the fiber geometry. Further, the angle at which the light contacts the material affects the amount of directional change forlight 105. As the light 105 passes through the material, the direction of the light remains substantially constant. However, as the light 105 exits thefiber ribbon 100, the light 105 changes direction. Along flattenedsecond surface 107, the light changes direction in a substantially uniform manner. That is, the light exiting thefiber ribbon 100 refracts at an angle that is substantially constant along the flattenedsecond surface 107. Refracted light 109 exiting thefiber ribbon 100 alongedge 101 refracts at an angle dissimilar to the light 105 exiting along the second flattenededge 107. As shown inFIG. 1 , the light 105 exitingfiber ribbon 100 along second flattenedsurface 107 is directed in a direction substantially similar to the direction of light that does not enter thefiber ribbon 100, as depicted by the three lines labeled 105 to the upper right hand portion ofFIG. 1 . However, the refractedlight 109 is directed in a direction that is different and at varying angles to light that does not enter thefiber ribbon 100, thereby distorting the light and distorting any image viewable through thefiber ribbon 100. -
FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of atransparent fiber ribbon 100 having a construction substantially identical to the fiber ribbon shown inFIG. 1 , wherein the geometry ofedge 101 is curved. As inFIG. 1 , the light exitingfiber ribbon 100 refracts forming refracted light 109, distorting the light and distorting any image viewable through thefiber ribbon 100. -
FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of atransparent fiber ribbon 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure having a construction substantially identical to the fiber ribbon shown inFIG. 1 . In addition, to thefiber ribbon 100 structure ofFIG. 1 , thetransparent fiber ribbon 100 includes anopaque portion 301 alongedge 101. Theopaque portion 301 includes an opaque material or coating that is capable of absorbinglight 105. In this embodiment, theopaque potion 301 includes a curved portion of opaque material. Theopaque portion 301 may be affixed to thefiber ribbon 100, may be adjacent or in close proximity to thefiber ribbon 100 or may be integrally formed withfiber ribbon 100. Theopaque portion 301 may include any suitable material that is opaque and absorbs light. Suitable opaque materials include, but are not limited to, crushed optically opaque glass (e.g., black glass), optically opaque paint, optically opaque rods (e.g., black rods), metallic layers, diffused impurities other materials that absorb light. Although not shown inFIG. 3 , theopaque portion 301 may be applied to both distal edges and portions of the flattenedfirst surface 103 and the flattenedsecond surface 107, if additional absorption of light is needed or for ease of manufacturing. As shown inFIG. 3 , the light 105 passing through the fiber ribbon 100 (see above discussion ofFIG. 1 ), results in viewedlight 305. For example, viewed light 305 may include light viewable through thefiber ribbon 100.Viewed light 305 is directed in a direction substantially identical to the source light 303, which is light that does not pass from one medium to another. As can be seen inFIG. 3 , the portion of light that is directed to edge 101 is absorbed byopaque portion 301 and is not permitted to exit thefiber ribbon 100. Therefore, substantially all of the light passing through thefiber ribbon 100 is viewed light 305, which is substantially undistorted. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 3 , theopaque portion 301 may be formed by providing an optically transparent glass rod with an optically opaque glass material (e.g., black glass particles) or coating on portions of the rod, corresponding toedges 101 of theribbon fiber 100. Thefiber ribbons 100 may be drawn using any known glass fiber drawing technique known in the art. The formedglass fiber ribbon 100 includes a transparent portion along the flattenedfirst surface 103 and along the flattenedsecond surface 107 and anopaque portion 301 alongedge 101. The flattenedfirst surface 103 and the flattened second surface are substantially planar and are preferably substantially parallel to each other. -
FIG. 4 shows an alternative embodiment, wherein thefiber ribbon 100 includes a substantially identical structure to thefiber ribbon 100 ofFIG. 3 wherein theopaque portion 301 affixed to edge 101 is a semicircular material. As inFIG. 3 , substantially all of the light passing through thefiber ribbon 100 is viewed light 305, which is substantially undistorted. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 4 , theopaque portion 301 may be formed by heating optically transparent glass and an optically opaque glass rod together during the drawing of thefiber ribbons 100. Thefiber ribbons 100 may be drawn using any known glass fiber drawing technique known in the art. The formedglass fiber ribbon 100 includes a transparent portion along the flattenedfirst surface 103 and along the flattenedsecond surface 107 and anopaque portion 301 alongedge 101. -
FIGS. 5 and 6 shows alternative embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein thefiber ribbons 100 include a substantially identical structure to thefiber ribbon 100 ofFIG. 3 . InFIGS. 5 and 6 , theopaque portion 301 is a coating formed or applied on theedge 101 of thefiber ribbon 100. The coating on theedge 101 includes an opaque paint or opaque material that is coated on theedge 101 of thefiber ribbon 100. In certain embodiments, the opaque paint or opaque material may be applied to theedge 101 of thefiber ribbon 100 and allowed to dry or cure. In other embodiments, the paint or opaque material may be applied prior to drawing, wherein theopaque portions 301 remain onedge 101. As inFIG. 3 , substantially all of the light passing through thefiber ribbon 100 is viewed light 305, which is substantially undistorted. - While the above has been shown and described as providing
opaque portions 301 that are applied during the formation or after the formation of thefiber ribbon 100, the invention is not limited to these embodiments. Theopaque portions 301 may also be integrally formed into thefiber ribbons 100 during production of thefiber ribbon 100 by processing the fiber ribbon to include opaque portions corresponding to theedges 101 of thefiber ribbons 100. For example thefiber ribbon 100 may be pulled or drawn from a melt pool, wherein theopaque portions 301 may be painted onto the pulledfiber ribbon 100 surface or integrally formed from adjacent melt pools of opaque material. In addition, while the above has been described asopaque portions 301 on theedges 101, the opaque portions may also cover some portion of the flattenedfirst surface 103 and the flattenedsecond surface 107, as desired for providing absorption of additional light that may be undesirably refracted or for ease of manufacturing, provided light is permitted to pass through the bulk of thefiber ribbon 100. -
FIG. 7 shows a reinforcedcomposite article 700 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Thecomposite article 700 is preferably a transparent article havingfiber ribbons 100 incorporated into amatrix material 701. Thematrix material 701 is a substantially transparent material that permits the passage of light. AlthoughFIG. 7 shows a substantially parallel arrangement offiber ribbons 100, the disclosure is not so limited. For example, thecomposite article 700 may include a plurality of fiber reinforced layers withfiber ribbons 100 at various angles to provide desirable mechanical properties. Thematrix material 701 may include any suitable material for use in the reinforced composite that is capable of incorporatingfiber ribbons 100 and providing passage of light.Suitable matrix materials 701 include, but are not limited to polymers, ceramics or glasses. For example, thematrix material 701 may include, but is not limited to, a thermoplastic resin material, such as polycarbonate, polyetherimide or a thermoset resin material, such as poly(methyl methacrylate), epoxy or bismaleimide or other transparent resin materials. In addition, thematrix material 701 may include, but is not limited to, a ceramic such a calcium fluoride. Thematrix material 701 utilized depends on the application, including the ambient temperatures and the temperatures of exposure. Thefiber ribbons 100 include a structure, such as the structure, includingopaque portion 301, as shown inFIGS. 3-6 . The arrangement of thefiber ribbon 100 is not limited to the arrangement shown and may include any arrangement that provide reinforcement of thecomposite article 700. The optical properties of thematrix material 701 may vary with conditions, such as temperature. Therefore, the absorption of light atedges 301 allows only light passing between thefiber ribbons 100 and light passing through the flattenedfirst surface 103 and the flattenedsecond surface 107 of thefiber ribbon 100. Therefore, the refraction of light and the direction in which the light is directed is substantially the same across thecomposite article 700, even at various temperatures. - While not so limited, the transparent
composite article 700 is suitable for use as a component of a window assembly or other transparent device. Window assembly, as used herein includes a window and components associated with the window, including the window, frames, mounting devices, or other associated equipment or devices. For example, the transparentcomposite article 700 may be assembled into a window assembly for an aircraft or a transparent portion of an automobile, armored vehicle (e.g., a personnel carrier or transport) or boat (e.g., a glass-bottomed boat). In addition, the transparentcomposite article 700 may be assembled into a window assembly for a stationary structure, such as a skyscraper or other architectural structure. Further still, in addition to window applications, the transparentcomposite article 700 is suitable for use with riot gear or other personal protection, such as face shields or armshields, wherein it is desirable to permit viewing through a ballistic resistant material. - While the invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (25)
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US12/015,221 US9334378B2 (en) | 2008-01-11 | 2008-01-16 | Distortion resistant transparent reinforcing fibers for use in transparent reinforced composites |
PCT/US2009/030331 WO2009089282A2 (en) | 2008-01-11 | 2009-01-07 | Distortion resistant transparent reinforcing fibers for use in transparent reinforced composites |
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US1300608A | 2008-01-11 | 2008-01-11 | |
US12/015,221 US9334378B2 (en) | 2008-01-11 | 2008-01-16 | Distortion resistant transparent reinforcing fibers for use in transparent reinforced composites |
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US9327458B2 (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2016-05-03 | The Boeing Company | In-situ annealing of polymer fibers |
CN105694515A (en) * | 2014-12-10 | 2016-06-22 | 波音公司 | high temperature range and high strain range transparent composites based on matrices having optically tunable refractive indices |
US9586699B1 (en) | 1999-08-16 | 2017-03-07 | Smart Drilling And Completion, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for monitoring and fixing holes in composite aircraft |
US9625361B1 (en) | 2001-08-19 | 2017-04-18 | Smart Drilling And Completion, Inc. | Methods and apparatus to prevent failures of fiber-reinforced composite materials under compressive stresses caused by fluids and gases invading microfractures in the materials |
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US9586699B1 (en) | 1999-08-16 | 2017-03-07 | Smart Drilling And Completion, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for monitoring and fixing holes in composite aircraft |
US9625361B1 (en) | 2001-08-19 | 2017-04-18 | Smart Drilling And Completion, Inc. | Methods and apparatus to prevent failures of fiber-reinforced composite materials under compressive stresses caused by fluids and gases invading microfractures in the materials |
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US9682536B2 (en) | 2010-12-15 | 2017-06-20 | The Boeing Company | Sandwiched fiber composites for ballistic applications |
US9327458B2 (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2016-05-03 | The Boeing Company | In-situ annealing of polymer fibers |
CN105694515A (en) * | 2014-12-10 | 2016-06-22 | 波音公司 | high temperature range and high strain range transparent composites based on matrices having optically tunable refractive indices |
US9939664B2 (en) | 2014-12-10 | 2018-04-10 | The Boeing Company | High temperature range and high strain range transparent composites based on matrices having optically tunable refractive indices |
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WO2009089282A2 (en) | 2009-07-16 |
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